Isla Espíritu Santo
I sometimes feel like I’m a broken record when I start a blog post saying, “this may be our family’s favorite adventure to date!” Our days on Isla Epíritu Santo were truly some of our very favorites. There was something incredibly special about being out on the uninhabited island that will be forever in my heart.
One of my life’s wishes was to explore the Sea of Cortez, the area on the eastern side of the Baja California Peninsula, also known as the Gulf of California. It separates the Baja peninsula from mainland Mexico. It is widely unpopulated and known to be one of the world’s most spectacular waters to view an incredibly varied species of marine life.
Baja Expeditions
After a little research we decided to book a guided trip through Baja Expeditions. They were so accommodating with our family’s needs with three kids ages 5, 9, 12 (at the time) and provided pretty much everything we would need for several days exploring the island.
Included in our trip was:
- snorkel gear
- wetsuits
- all meals, snacks, and drinks
- canvas tents with sleeping bags and cots (right on the sand!)
- guides and boats to explore other parts of the island
- paddle boards and kayaks
We had an unforgettable time. From getting suited up in their offices in La Paz to the ride out to the island, from each mini excursion to each of the different bays and coves to swimming with fish, rays, and sea lions. The only downside was that one of the main reasons we chose the Sea of Cortez was to see whales after being completely shut out during our Pacific Northwest Trip and time on San Juan Island the summer before.
Highlights of Isla Espíritu Santo
- Baja Expeditions did a wonderful job
- Glamping on the sand just inches from the water
- Letting the kids explore endlessly on land and on water
- All meals made by someone other than me
- Starting our New Year’s Eve tradition with these lists
- Spotting blue-footed boobies and osprey
- Knowing I’ll be back some day to see whales up close
Getting There
We flew into Los Cabos Airport, had lunch at Zippers on the beach, then drove to La Paz. We were to meet Baja Expeditions at 9am so we opted to stay the night in La Paz and start the next day to avoid an exceptionally early morning given the 3 hour drive from Cabo. We stayed at the Hyatt Place La Paz. They offered a free shuttle to the far end of town from which we walked a couple blocks to the Baja Expeditions office. Alternatively you can hire a taxi and go direct. Not sure why we didn’t, but we ended up fine any way. The boat ride out was rough water, but this isn’t always the case. I think our ride out was longer than normal because of it. It’s typically about an hour journey. Once you arrive on the island and see your canvas tents, you will be ready to explore.
More on Mexico
Our family absolutely loves Mexico. We have been many many times without cause for concern despite news reports. We have been to Baja 3 or 4 times, Sayulita and Punta Mita on the Pacific mainland near Puerto Vallarta dozens of times, Mérida and Tulum on the Yucatan Peninsula and Mexico City, D.F. Mexico is an easy adventure for families whose travel is bound by school calendars and offers everything from beach resorts, colonial cities, ancient ruins and quaint villages. Mexico is definitely Simple Proof approved.
Where to Stay in Cabo San Lucas and surrounding areas:
Farther afield in Todos Santos:
